Be aware of the signs of bowel cancer, Worcestershire expert warns

A CANCER expert from Droitwich has warned being aware of the signs of bowel cancer – which kills someone in the UK every 30 minutes – could make the difference between life and death.

As part of this month’s Bowel Cancer Awareness Month consultant colorectal surgeon at the BMI Droitwich Spa Hospital Simon Radley has said, when spotted early, the disease can successfully treated in more than 90 per cent of cases.

Figures by Cancer Research UK show more than 93 per cent of people diagnosed with the condition at an early stage live for at least five years in comparison with seven per cent of those who find out at a later stage.

Mr Radley – who also founded the Birmingham Bowel Clinic – said it was important to be aware of symptoms including weight loss, feeling tired without reason, stomach pains or a lump in the stomach.

“If you know what is normal you can then act if something out of the ordinary happens,” he said.

“A change in your bowel habit that lasts for three weeks or more, blood in your poo are warning signs that need acting upon as soon as possible.”

“In many cases there is not a clear cut reason why some people develop bowel cancer, but you can reduce your personal risk of developing cancer by making some simple lifestyle choices.”

Ways to prevent bowel cancer include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and cutting down on alcohol. Exercising regularly and eating healthily are also likely to reduce the risk of developing the disease.